Having confirmed that the vast majority of Cetus's body had been obliterated,
"Well, naturally speaking, this was the inevitable outcome,"
Asta remarked with a hint of sarcasm, voicing what was only to be expected.
"Yeah, pretty much."
Given Gil's abilities and past performance, this result was well within expectations.
Asta silently studied my face for a moment, then—
"Master, clearing that battle just now couldn't possibly mean he has cleared the Second Trial... could it?"
Shrugging, he asked a question whose answer was self-evident to both of us.
"Don't ask things you already know full well. That was merely the signal flare for the Second Trial. The real show starts now."
There was no way a measly lizard like Cetus could be the boss of the Second Trial. In the end, he was nothing more than a sacrifice to set the trial in motion.
"So you were aware that we were working behind the scenes after all."
"Of course I was. Including the fact that Aldebaran is trying to summon the being he reveres as a chief god."
"Surely you don't intend to make Gilbert face that chief god?"
"Didn't I tell you? Strength isn't what I'm asking of him. I don't expect him to go that far. Though, he'll still need a bare minimum of strength to clear it."
There are no such things as gods in this world. Therefore, the "chief god" Aldebaran speaks of is likely nothing more than an exaggeration, but even so, it is an entity worshipped by Demon King Aldebaran, one of the Four Great Demon Kings. It should be the most powerful being I have ever encountered. I haven't the slightest expectation that Gil could actually defeat something like that. The boss of this Second Trial will be limited to whatever among the summons from their upcoming, dubious ritual is suited to Gil's current level of strength.
"I cannot help but feel that minimum bar is far too high for that little monkey, however."
"Asta, are you sympathizing with Gil? That's unlike you."
This trial was meant to determine whether he could truly become human. It was surprising enough that Asta, who was fundamentally detached from everything, took an interest in Gil at all, but even if it was Asta's wish, I had no intention of going easy on him.
"Perish the thought. There is only one thing I fear: that an exceedingly dense, worldly ignorant blockhead might learn the bleak realities of this world and lose all motivation."
"A dense, worldly ignorant blockhead, huh. Sounds like you have your hands full, too."
Judging by that distinct phrasing, this blockhead was probably Asta's lover or something along those lines. Most likely, they were taking part in this operation as well. Lately, Asta had often been acting just like my childhood friends, so it wasn't particularly surprising.
"..."
Asta looked at me with half-lidded eyes and let out a deep sigh. There, that's the one. Laila and the others often gave me that exact same look.
Yeah, this is getting awkward. Better move things along.
"Well, whatever. Back to the point. I'm well aware you lot are involved in summoning that chief god."
"Great One, for our wholly presumptuous behavior—"
Raising my right hand, I cut off Girimehkala, who was bowing his head deeply in apology.
"Don't get the wrong idea. I know one of your goals was to spare the monsters from unnecessary sacrifices. I have no intention of blaming you in the least; in fact, I'm grateful. You did well."
I offered words of thanks.
"S-Such gracious words are far more than I deserve..."
Girimehkala choked back tears welling at the corners of his eyes, to whom I continued:
"I, Kai Heinemann, command you once more. Resurrect that so-called chief god and launch the Second Trial in earnest!"
"By your will!"
Answering with a roar that shook the very air, Girimehkala was enveloped in a black mist before vanishing into the night sky. A moment later, Ifrit dissipated into black flames, and Titan dissolved into black sand, both vanishing from sight.
Asta gave a slight bow before melting away into the darkness of the night.
"Now then, the real test begins. Let's see you struggle!"
I called out in encouragement toward Gil, who was displayed in the projection before my eyes.